Math Problem Statement

Find a polynomial f(x) of degree 4 that has the following zeros: 3, -4, 7, 0. Leave your answer in factored form.

Solution

To find the polynomial f(x)f(x) of degree 4 with the given zeros 3,4,7,03, -4, 7, 0, we use the fact that the polynomial can be expressed in factored form as:

f(x)=a(xr1)(xr2)(xr3)(xr4)f(x) = a(x - r_1)(x - r_2)(x - r_3)(x - r_4)

where r1,r2,r3,r4r_1, r_2, r_3, r_4 are the roots (or zeros) of the polynomial, and aa is a constant.

Step 1: Write the factors for the given zeros

Given zeros are 3,4,7,03, -4, 7, 0, so the factors are: f(x)=a(x3)(x+4)(x7)(x)f(x) = a(x - 3)(x + 4)(x - 7)(x)

Step 2: Simplify (if needed)

In factored form, the polynomial is already: f(x)=a(x3)(x+4)(x7)(x)f(x) = a(x - 3)(x + 4)(x - 7)(x)

If no specific value for aa is given, you can assume a=1a = 1: f(x)=(x3)(x+4)(x7)(x)f(x) = (x - 3)(x + 4)(x - 7)(x)

Let me know if you want the expanded form or further explanation!


Do you have any additional questions or need help with the expansion?

Here are 5 related questions you might consider:

  1. How do you expand a polynomial like this one?
  2. What happens to the graph of f(x)f(x) if we change the value of aa?
  3. How can you verify that the given zeros correspond to this polynomial?
  4. What is the degree of the polynomial in this form?
  5. How do you find the leading coefficient of f(x)f(x)?

Tip: The product of the zeros determines the constant term (if a=1a = 1) in the expanded form.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polynomials
Factored Form
Roots/Zeros of a Polynomial

Formulas

f(x) = a(x - r1)(x - r2)(x - r3)(x - r4)

Theorems

Fundamental Theorem of Algebra

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12